Sentencing for Vernone Edwards was postponed by federal prosecutors because he is still needed as a witness against Willie D. Clark, above center, who was convicted of killing former Denver Bronco Darrent Williams.

Federal prosecutors have once again delayed sentencing Vernone Edwards so he can testify against Willie D. Clark, a former childhood friend, in a witness-murder case.

Edwards, who is facing federal drug trafficking charges of his own, was supposed to be sentenced today in U.S. District Court. The postponement was the seventh time prosecutors have asked for an extension for Edwards because the trials of Clark and his associates have taken several years and they need to ensure his testimony. Court filings indicate this will be the last expected postponement.

Last year, Edwards testified against Clark who murdered Denver Broncos player Darrent Williams during a drive-by shooting on New Year’s Day 2007. Edwards was a member of the Tre Tre Crips who had inside information about Clark and his role in the homicide.

His last appearance before a jury could come this fall when Edwards is expected to testify against Willie Clark again. Willie Clark is also charged with killing Kalonniann Clark (no relation) and would serve another life sentence if convicted.

Willie Clark is already serving life plus 1,152 years in state prison for the murder of Williams and for shooting at more than a dozen people inside the player’s limousine.

Edwards decided to cooperate with investigators after he was arrested on crack-c0caine dealing charges and learned he could do 30 years to life in prison. Because of his cooperation, prosecutors may now ask a judge to sentence him to 10 to 20 years instead.